Intelligence
According to the American Psychological Association, intelligence is defined as “the
ability to understand complex ideas, adapt effectively to the environment, learn from experience,
engage in various forms of reasoning, and overcome obstacles by taking thought”. This
definition emphasises that intelligence is the mental ability to learn from experience, solve
problems, adapt to new situations, think critically, and apply knowledge effectively in different
environments. It reflects how well a person can reason, plan, comprehend complex ideas, and
make sound decisions.
Types of Intelligence
Thorndike has classified intelligence into 3 types which is given below
Abstract Intelligence
The ability to understand and deal with ideas, symbols, and concepts .It involves
reasoning with words, numbers, and abstract ideas. It is used academic tasks – solving math
problems, logic puzzles etc. It is measured by tests like IQ tests and aptitude tests. It is important
in problem-solving and decision-making. It plays a key component in most intelligence theories
(like Spearman’s g factor).
Concrete Intelligence
The ability to understand and deal with objects, tools, and real-world things. It involves
handling physical or mechanical tasks. It involves skills like assembling, repairing, and operating
machines. It depends on practical knowledge and hands-on experience. It can be assessed using
performance or skill-based tasks. It helps to adapt to real-life situations effectively.
Social Intelligence
It is the ability to understand and manage personal and social situations. It is coined by
E.L. Thorndike. It involves interpersonal skills, empathy, and communication and helps in
understanding others’ emotions and intentions. It is essential in professions like teaching,
counselling, leadership, and HR. It can be developed with practice and observation. It is
important for success in personal and professional relationships.
Theories of Intelligence in Psychology
Spearman’s Theory of General Intelligence
Spearman’s Two-Factor Theory was proposed by Charles Spearman in the early 20 th
century. He suggested that intelligence is composed of G-factor (general intelligence) and S
factor. G factor includes common abilities used across tasks. It is a kind of mental energy that
flow into everything that a individual does. S-factor (specific intelligence) includes abilities
specific to a particular task. It emphasizes a single underlying intelligence that supports all
cognitive tasks. They are supported by statistical analysis (factor analysis).
Thurstone’s Primary Mental Abilities Theory
Proposed by L.L. Thurstone, he argued that intelligence is not a single factor. He also
identified seven primary mental abilities:
Verbal Comprehension. The ability to define and understand words effectively.which
helps in readingcomprehension, vocabulary usage and language understanding.
Numerical Ability. The ability to solve mathematical problemsand aptitude based
problems Helps in educational field and real life situation
Spatial Relations. The ability to rotate, twist , visualise and interpretation of objects. It is
used in map reading,geometry and driving
Perceptual Speed. The ability to quickly see differences and similarities among subjects.
It is used in exercise of spotting differences and error detection.
Word Fluency. The ability to produce words rapidlyusing their mental vocabulary. Used
in public speaking and interviews.
Associative Memory. The ability to memorize and recall stored information.
Inductive Reasoning. The ability to make decision,arrive at conclusions and solve
problems efficiently.
Each ability is relatively independent of the others. Thurstone did not reject Spearman’s
theory but theorized that intelligence consist of both general ability and a number of specific
abilities.
Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences
Developed by Howard Gardner in 1983.Proposed that intelligence is multifaceted and not
just academic. He Identified eight (later nine) distinct types of intelligence:
Verbal-Linguistic Intelligence. It refers to well developed Verbal skills and sensitivity to
sound, meanings and rhythm of words
Logical-Mathematical Intelligence. It is the ability to think conceptually and abstractly
an
Visual-Spatial Intelligence. It is the capacity to think in images and visualize things
accurately and abstractly
Bodily-Kinaesthetic Intelligence. It is the ability to control body movements and handle
objects skillfully
Musical Intelligence. It is the ability to produce and appreciate rhythm,pitchand timber
Interpersonal Intelligence. It is the capacity to detect and respond appropriately to the
moods,motivation and desires of others
Intrapersonal Intelligence. It is the capacity to be self aware about the inner
feelings,values , belief and thinking process
Naturalistic Intelligence. It is the ability to recognize and categories animals,plants and
other object in nature
Sternberg’s Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
Developed by Robert Sternberg Introduced the triarchic theory of intelligence. This
theory states intelligence as the ability to achieve success based on personal standards and
sociocultural context. Divides intelligence into three components:
Analytical Intelligence. It is refered as componential intelligence that is applied in
problem-solving, academic tasks to evaluate and analyse problems and arrive at solutions. This is
what a traditional IQ measure
Creative Intelligence. Intelligence that involves innovation and dealing with novel
situations. It involves imagination, innovation and problem solving
Practical Intelligence. Intelligence that a individual uses to solve real-world problems.
Adapting to the demands of the environment involves either utilising knowledge gained from
experience to purposefully change oneself to adapt to the situation.
Guilford’s Theory of Intelligence
J.P. Guilford was an American psychologist.He rejected the idea of a single general
intelligence (g-factor). He believed intelligence is multidimensional. He studied creativity and
intelligence in detail.He emphasized divergent thinking – ability to generate many ideas.
Guilford said intelligence has three dimensions:
Operations (Mental Processes). The dimension consist of 6 operations or general
intellectuals
Cognition. Involves aspects of understanding, comprehending and recognizing
information.
Memory Recording. Involves the efficiency to encode and interpret informations.
Memory Retention. Ability to recalling stored information.
Divergent Thinking. Ability to generating multiple solutions to a particular problems.
Convergent Thinking. The capacity to find one correct solution to a particular issue
Contents (Types of Information). It has 5 main categories of information
Visual. Information processed through sense of sight like shapes, patterns, pattens.
Auditory. Information processed through sense of hearing.
Kinaesthetic. Information processed through body movements
Symbolic. Information encoded through symbols .
Semantic. Information conveyed through words and meanings.
Behavioural. Information conveyed through people’s actions
Products (Forms of Output). There are 5 forms of output.
Units. Single items or facts.
Classes. Categories of items that common characteristics
Relations. A group of units that have connections in various aspects
Systems. Systems are made up of interconnected complex organization to form a
structure
Transformations. Alteration in knowledge includes changes in perspectives
Psychological Test That Measures Intelligence
Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales
The Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales is one of the oldest and most respected
intelligence tests. It measures general intelligence and provides an Intelligence Quotient (IQ)
score. The test evaluates five key areas: fluid reasoning, knowledge, quantitative reasoning,
visual-spatial processing, and working memory. It can be used for individuals from age 2 through
adulthood and is often applied in educational, clinical, and research settings to assess intellectual
ability.
Wechsler Intelligence Scales (WAIS)
Developed by David Wechsler, this series of tests is among the most widely used in the
world. There are three versions tailored to different age groups: WAIS for adults, WISC for
children, and WPPSI for pre-schoolers. These tests measure several aspects of intelligence,
including verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed.
They provide a Full-Scale IQ as well as individual scores in each domain, offering a detailed
cognitive profile.The subtest scores were grouped to provide an overall verbal score and
performance score. The WAIS was revised in 1981 and again in 1997.
Raven’s Progressive Matrices (RSPM)
Raven’s Standard Progressive Matrices (RSPM) is a nonverbal test which was developed
by John C. Raven in 1936 for measuring abstract reasoning and fluid intelligence. It is often
included in clinical assessment barriers and research on patients with cognitive deficits. Raven’s
Progressive Matrices is a non-verbal intelligence test that primarily assesses abstract reasoning
and problem-solving ability. The test consists of visual patterns with a missing piece, and the
individual must select the correct piece from several options. Because it does not rely on
language, it is considered a culturally fair test and is widely used to assess intelligence in diverse
populations or those with language impairments.
Cattell Culture Fair Intelligence Test
This test was developed to reduce cultural and environmental biases in intelligence
testing. It focuses on fluid intelligence, or the ability to solve novel problems without relying on
learned knowledge. The test uses abstract figures and patterns rather than words or culturally
influenced content, making it suitable for cross-cultural assessments and individuals from varied
backgrounds
Factors Influencing Intelligence
Intelligence is influenced by the following factors –
Biological Factors
Studies on twins and families show that genes play a major role in intelligence and
hormonal imbalances and prenatal conditions can also affect brain development.
Environmental Factors
The quality of the environment in which a person grows up (home, neighborhood,
school) significantly impacts cognitive developmentof the individual.
Educational Factors
Formal education improves crystallized intelligence. Schools train children in problem-
solving, reasoning, and memory skills. Lack of access to quality education can limit intellectual
development. Early childhood education is especially important for brain development.
Socioeconomic Status
Children from lower SES families often have less access to educational resources,
nutrition, and healthcare.Financial hardship can create stress, which affects brain function.
Cultural Factors
Cultural practices shape how intelligence is expressed and assessed.Some intelligence
tests may be culturally biased, giving an unfair advantage to certain groups. Cultures that
promote independent thinking and creativity may enhance certain intellectual
Emotional Intelligence (EI)
EI is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one's own emotions. It also
involves understanding and influencing the emotions of others. It was popularized by Daniel
Goleman in the 1990s.It helps in effective communication and building strong relationships.
People with high EI handle stress better. Emotional intelligence plays a significant role in social
interactions, decision making and overall wellbeing.
Importance of Emotional Intelligence
1. Helps in better decision-making under stress- Understanding emotions can lead to more
balanced decisions
2. Improves communication and social skills -They can express themselves more effectively.
3. Promotes empathy and understanding in relationships-They can empathize with others which
creates a better mutual understanding
4. Reduces chances of conflict and improves teamwork as the can coordinate with others easily
5. Crucial in professional settings like healthcare, teaching, and management as the can adapt to
demanding situation easily.
6. Supports mental health by reducing anxiety and depression as they can cope up with
environment quickly.
Components of Emotional Intelligence
Daniel Goleman's model breaks down Emotional Intelligence into 5 key components
Self-Awareness
A major part of EI in knowing their own emotions. Individual with high self awareness
can recognize and understand their emotions better.
Self-Regulation
Controlling their emotions and behaviour effectively. It includes avoiding impulsive
actions.
Motivation
Using emotions to reach goals and helps them to overcome the challenges. High
motivation increases the focus on the goals despite the struggles.
Empathy
Understanding others' emotions. With high EI can accurately identify genuine and false
emotions by observing facial expression and body expressions.
Social Skills
Building and managing relationships effectively and maintain healthy friendships. It
enables effective decision making and better Interpersonal relations
Dimensions of Emotional Intelligence
Sensitivity
Sensitivity refers to the ability to notice, understand, and respond appropriately to the
emotions of others.It enables effective decision-making and better interpersonal relations due to
the individual’s capability to reflect and manage emotions.
Conscientiousness
It is an intrinsic quality which propels one to act in a way which is acceptable to the self,
according to her/his internalized value systems and principles, even at personal risk.
Empathy
Empathy is the ability to feel and understand what others are going through emotionally.
It is about the projection of one’s own feelings onto an object or person to the extent of being
even physical.
Adaptability
It is the degree to which an individual can effectively mould or adjust her/his thoughts,
behavior, and emotions (internal mechanisms) when the external environment cannot be adjusted
anymore.
Difference between EQ, IQ AND SQ
Aspects EQ(EMOTIONAL) IQ(INTELLIGENCE) SQ(SOCIAL)
Focus Emotions Logic and reasoning Social behaviour
Measures Emotional control and Mental ability Social senses
empathy
Importance Personal and Academic Social adaptability
professional
Example Conflict resolution Solving puzzles Team work
References
Kubala, K. (2022). What to know about emotional intelligence. Medical News Today. Retrieved
from emotional-intelligence https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/components-of
emotinal-intelligence
Rajamanickam(2005). Experimental Psychology with advanced experiments. (Vol.1). New
Delhi: Concept Publishing Company.
Rajamanickam. (2005). Experimental Psychology with advanced experiments. (Vol.2). New
Delhi: Concept Publishing Company.
